Press Release
2014-02-10
CancerCare® Applauds Recent CVS Decision to Ban Tobacco Products
Prevention is critical as cancer cases rise
New York, NY, February 10, 2014 – CancerCare, a leading national nonprofit organization providing free support services to anyone affected by cancer, proudly supports CVS Caremark’s stance against tobacco products.
CVS Caremark, the nation’s second-largest drugstore chain, recently announced the decision to stop selling cigarettes and other tobacco products in their stores by October. The company predicts this change will drastically cut sales by an estimated $2 billion annually, but will further their mission of serving as a health care-focused retailer.
“We are pleased to see CVS taking a stance and setting an example in the pharmacy industry. This decision shines a light on the ramifications of tobacco use and creates a timely world-wide conversation,” said Win Boerckel, CancerCare’s National Lung Cancer Program Coordinator.
The announcement comes on the heels of World Health Organization’s release of The World Cancer Report 2014 estimating a dramatic increase in cancer cases over the next two decades. The report emphasizes the importance of cancer screening and avoidance of lifestyle behaviors such as tobacco usage that can increase the risk of being diagnosed with cancer.
“CancerCare works with cancer patients and survivors every day and we know how devastating this disease can be for everyone involved. While it is important to stress that tobacco use is not the only cause of lung cancer, more than 80 percent of cases are caused by smoking,” added Boerckel.
About CancerCare®
Founded in 1944, CancerCare® is the leading national organization providing free, professional services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer. CancerCare’s comprehensive support services include counseling and support groups available over the phone, online and in-person, educational workshops, publications and financial and co-payment assistance. CancerCare services are provided by professional oncology social workers and are completely free of charge.
To learn more, visit www.cancercare.org or call 800-813-HOPE (4673).